Excess baggage: packing everything but the kitchen sink

27th February 2012

Research from British Airways found an unusual array of items packed for a week-long trip, including sardines, teabags and Marmite

The British Airways survey asked 1,176 people from the UK what the most random item they have ever taken on holiday was and not used. On the list were a range of interesting items including teabags complete with kettle; peanut butter; super noodles and sardines.

Abigail Comber, BA's head of branding and marketing, talked about the findings: "(Brits) don't really want to have to choose between books, toiletries or teabags, or to dress kids in half their holiday clothes just to avoid excess baggage fees."

One in eight passengers surveyed took three or more towels and nearly half took more than ten pairs of pants for a week away. Unsurprisingly, 90% of people didn't use a third of what was packed in their suitcase.

Alarmingly, 23% of those asked, do not look into airline baggage limits before they travel. Passengers from Scotland and east England have had to pay the most in excess baggage fees, according to the study.

What's the most random thing you've taken with you on your travels? Is one pair of shoes enough or are at least three needed?